A photo of Miley Cyrus on the red carpet must show some tongue and some tummy, right? Jeff Kravitz, FilmMagic for MTV

VMA performer 2 Chainz rocks more than a couple strands of gold on the carpet. Kevin Mazur, WireImage for MTV

Well, that look says 'Roar'! Katy Perry's cheetah-print Emanuel Ungaro dress definitely goes with her new single that she's closing the show with. Think the gold embellishments make the look Michael Jackson-esque? Kevin Mazur, WireImage for MTV

One of the first to arrive on the red carpet? Nicole 'Snooki' Polizzi. The reality TV star is serving as an 'Extra' VMA correspondent. Let's hope her plunging neckline doesn't distract interviewees! Kevin Mazur, WireImage for MTV

Singer Ariana Grande looked fab in a floral dress and pumps. The Nickelodeon star is performing in the VMAs pre-show. If she looks nervous in this photo, it's because she is. "I'm peeing my pants," she tweeted. Who was she looking forward to seeing? "Justin Timberlake! And I hope he plays 'Sexy Back.' " Kevin Mazur, WireImage for MTV

Singer Austin Mahone looked sharp in all black. The pre-show performer won artist to watch for his 'What About Love.' Kevin Mazur, WireImage for MTV